My friends,
In just a few days, we begin Holy Week where we remember the final days of Jesus. We remember his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, his teaching in Jerusalem, his institution of the Eucharist, his command of love, his example of washing feet, the betrayal, condemnation, abandonment, trial and death. We remember his decent into Hades and finally his glorious resurrection.
As we prepare to celebrate these liturgies, I want to reflect on the relationship between the Independent Sacramental Movement and the Paschal Mystery which we celebrate. It is easy for us to be on the “good side” while those in mainline churches are seen in a negative light. Just as the leaders crucified Jesus, we think mainline churches abandon principles just as the religious leaders did at the time of Jesus. The truth is more unpleasant than we would like to assume.
Jesus came amid great jubilation, as people sang his praises, only to cry for his crucifixion a few days later. Are our shouts of acclaim just as empty and fickle as the crowd? Do we forget that Jesus has come not for earthly praise but to do the will of his Father? Do we want acclaim rather than picking up our cross and following Jesus?
Jesus gave the Eucharist as his gift to us, to remind us of his love, to strengthen us, and to be present with us always. How have we failed to be that Eucharistic gift to others? We are to become what we receive and be changed by what we celebrate and yet we remain far too human and fail to reverence Christ in others.
Jesus was crucified as people preferred a messiah that fits their expectations. How have we crucified others who do not fit our expectations? How do we pronounce judgement on others with different views failing to see how the kingdom of God is at work in them?
The Paschal Mystery invites us to look deep within ourselves. Many of us want to believe that we are reforming the church as opposed to the Pharisees and Scribes who cry out for the death of Jesus. Yes, mainline churches can hinder others from coming to Christ, but we fail too. Our jurisdictions are filled with rivalry, bickering, concern with power and titles.
We want Jesus to manifest his power on our benefit. Jesus shows a different way of being because he has true relationship and communion with the Father and the Holy Spirit. We want successful ministries, but Jesus shows that giving all in love is what discipleship is truly about. Jesus was not successful as his few disciples abandoned him, but he remained faithful and trusted in the Father.
Being a disciple is never easy especially in the Independent Sacramental Movement which offers ridicule, has few resources, and so little community support. We know the story does not end with the cross but the resurrection where death itself is destroyed. A lot of what we do needs to be put to death in order for God to do something new.
Peace,
Ben
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